Researchers call for behavioral counseling, stress management in military

September 30, 2011

It's no secret that soldiers at war – and even those at home – experience high levels of stress due to the physical demands and psychological trauma that results from military training and combat.

A team of researchers at the RAND Corporation have called on U.S. military officials to improve behavioral health training for soldiers, in terms of both quality and access.

The scientists reported that military personnel should make efforts to increase the number of men and women using existing services, and ensure that healthcare providers and counselors running these programs are doing a good job. Additionally, the team said that confidential care is of great importance in increasing the use of behavioral health training.

“Efforts should focus on changing the culture at all levels of the military to encourage those in distress to seek help along with efforts to identify and intervene with service members who are at risk of suicide,” said lead author and social scientist Rajeev Ramchand.

One way military officials can supplement counseling and training programs is by providing soldiers with tools and resources for stress management.